Thabang Mmese

Thabang Mmese is an Umholi we Africa Fellow, currently serving as Information Technology Fellow at the Ministry of Youth and Gender Affairs, Republic of Botswana, where he brings his expertise in technology, data, and systems thinking to public-sector challenges. 

A technology professional and aspiring AI researcher and policymaker, Thabang has more than six years of experience across the banking and engineering sectors. His experience has given him a strong understanding of operational risk, data integrity, and the complexities of designing and managing systems that need to work reliably at scale. 

Thabang’s work sits at the intersection of machine learning, data engineering, and product development, with a particular interest in harnessing Artificial Intelligence to drive sustainable and ethical innovation. He is passionate about translating complex technologies into practical solutions that can improve how organisations operate and how people access opportunities and services. 

His commitment to technology-driven impact is reflected in the initiatives he has led and contributed to, including CODE HIVE, which he founded to expand access to computer science education for young people in Botswana and has grown into the country’s largest after-school computer science programme. He has also built and contributed to solutions across fintech, blockchain, and data-driven platforms. 

Thabang thrives in environments that demand critical thinking, rapid problem-solving, and the ability to bridge the gap between technical systems and the people and institutions they are designed to serve. 

Through the Umholi we Africa Fellowship, Thabang is bringing his technical expertise and systems-oriented approach into public service, while exploring how technology and responsible AI can empower communities, strengthen institutions, and improve decision-making. 

At the heart of his work is a commitment to continuous learning, ethical innovation, and using technology as a force for meaningful and scalable impact in Africa.